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Iran's Women’s Football Team Focuses on Cup Amid Protests

3/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Iran's women's national football team is preparing for Women's Asian Cup in Australia after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's killing.
Coach Marziyeh Jafari and captain Zahra Ghanbari say the team is well prepared despite ongoing anti-government protests in Iran.
During a press conference, questions about Khamenei's death were dismissed to focus on the match against South Korea.
Ghanbari seeks qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup, noting competition from South Korea, Australia, and the Philippines.

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Story summary

Iran's women's national football team is preparing for Women's Asian Cup in Australia after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's killing.
Coach Marziyeh Jafari and captain Zahra Ghanbari say the team is well prepared despite ongoing anti-government protests in Iran.
During a press conference, questions about Khamenei's death were dismissed to focus on the match against South Korea.
Ghanbari seeks qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup, noting competition from South Korea, Australia, and the Philippines.